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Low-Cost Propane and Increase in Propylene Prices Boost US Propane Dehydrogenation
Plant’s Margins
A technology similar to Uhde STAR process takes place in the third edition of Intratec’s propane
dehydrogenation report.
Houston, TX – In this publication, Intratec Solutions LLC (www.intratec.us) continues the study on the economics of
propane dehydrogenation (PDH) processes. “Propylene via Propane Dehydrogenation, Part 3” comprises an analysis
based in a technology similar to the Uhde STAR process. According to the report, investments on building PDH
plants in the US are encouraged by the growing exploitation of shale gas in the country, which increases propane
availability and reduces its cost.
The publication assesses the capital costs required to construct a
propane dehydrogenation unit as well as the operational costs. In
addition, Intratec performed a historical pricing analysis, which
revealed that PDH plants margins in the US have been increasing in
the last 5 years due to higher PG propylene prices and lower
propane prices, attesting the favorable scenario to new propylene
plants relying on PDH process.
The study also indicates that China is a suitable location for PDH
plants. Although propane availability in the country is not as large as
in the US, Middle East plants may supply the feedstock. It is
possible to take advantage of lower construction costs and build
propylene plants integrated with polypropylene units. Integrated
projects may exhibit higher margins, due to the spread between
imported propane and polypropylene prices. Thus, attractive rates of
return on investment can be achieved in the country.
“Propylene Production via Propane Dehydrogenation, Part 3” brings
an economic analysis of a PDH plant capable of producing 450 kta of
polymer-grade (PG) propylene and is available at established
distribution channels like Amazon.com and HP Magcloud. A preview
of the publication can be found at: www.intratec.us/publications/propylene-production-via-propane-dehydrogenation-
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This publication complements the two studies previously released by Intratec:
“Propylene Production via Propane Dehydrogenation”, describing a propane dehydrogenation process similar UOP
Oleflex – available at www.intratec.us/publications/propylene-production-via-propane-dehydrogenation
“Propylene Production via Propane Dehydrogenation, Part 2”, depicting propane dehydrogenation plants relying on a
process similar to Lummus CATOFIN – available at www.intratec.us/publications/propylene-production-via-propane-
dehydrogenation-2
About Intratec Solutions
Intratec (www.intratec.us) offers online the most affordable and reliable advisory services on mature chemical
process technologies, emerging process technologies and chemical process improvements. Intratec also provides
techno-economic publications for chemical and allied industries. Intratec's expertise resides at the intersection of
technology and strategy - a natural fit for clients looking for thought-provoking technological analysis and visionary
strategic thinking. Intratec is the developer of the Knowledge Base, a Free Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology &
Economics.
Access at: base.intratec.us